The Supreme Court, in its recent session, emphasized the obligation of the State Bank of India (SBI) to disclose the distinctive alphanumeric identities associated with electoral bonds received by political entities. This assertion came as a response to the court's observation that the SBI had not fulfilled this obligation, despite the court's prior directive in the electoral bonds case.
Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, leading a five-judge bench, reminded the SBI of the court's previous ruling, which mandated the disclosure of comprehensive details regarding electoral bonds, encompassing information about the purchaser, amount, and purchase date. The court highlighted the necessity for SBI to disclose the bond numbers, stressing that this disclosure was imperative given the duty-bound nature of the bank's responsibilities.
The unique alphanumeric identifiers associated with electoral bonds play a crucial role in tracing the link between purchasers and the political parties receiving donations. Failure to disclose these identifiers by SBI was deemed unacceptable by the court, emphasizing the bank's obligation to adhere to the court's directives.
During the hearing, the Election Commission's application seeking a modification of the court's earlier order was also discussed. The court directed the registrar (judicial) to digitize and scan the data previously submitted by the Election Commission in a sealed cover. This data, once processed, would be returned to the Election Commission for compliance with the court's directive to publish it on its official website.
Senior advocates representing various parties reiterated the court's clear stance on SBI's obligation to furnish all details related to electoral bonds. The court, considering the gravity of the matter, directed the registry to issue a notice to SBI, summoning them to appear before the court on the designated date.
The court's unwavering commitment to transparency in electoral funding was evident throughout the proceedings, reflecting its landmark verdict on the electoral bonds scheme. The court's decision to scrap the scheme underscored the importance of transparency in political funding, signaling a significant step towards ensuring accountability and integrity in the electoral process.
Read also | Supreme Court Rejects Manish Sisodia's Appeals for Bail in Liquor Policy Scandal
